Activists Denied Entry into Canada

We here in NYC, of the anti-FTAA coalition, are compiling information and stories regarding activists being turned back from the Canadian border. Specifically, but not exclusively, if you were denied entry around Jan 25 thru 27, traveling to the "consulta" in Quebec City, let us know.

NYC Ya Basta! Collective

On Jan. 26, ten New York City based activists traveled by van to Quebec City, to take part in the CLAC and CASA sponsored "consulta"- meetings designed to facilitate coordination between Canadian and US activists for the upcoming FTAA summit in April.

These activist, including members of the Urban Justice Center, NYC Direct Action Network, NYC Ya Basta! Collective, Independent Media Center, as well as independent activists, were denied entry into Canada.

Canadian border officials, upon refusal of entry, proceeded to search the van, without consent, and went about the collection and copying of documents relating to the organization of resistance to the FTAA. At no time did these activists give consent to any actions on the part of the Customs officials.

Based on this and other reported incidents, several points should be considered:

One: US activists wishing to travel to Quebec City in April will certainly fall upon a border heavily sentried and surveyed. Access to Canada by interstate highway will almost certainly lead to refusal of entry.

Two: However, chances of admittance will be increased depending on how "normal" certain people tend to look, as well as factors such as numbers in group, time of crossing, or obvious signs of political activism.

Three: As impractical as it may sound, leave political writings, flyers, banners and such at home, or send them via postal mail to contacts in Canada, as these items will surely "give one away" in the possible scenario of a search at customs.

Four: Your chances of entry will also be increased if you travel alone, well dressed, possibly by train or bus (such as Greyhound). Destination other than Quebec City should be a priority, such as Montreal or Toronto.

Five: Have a well thought out story, or a live contact in one of these cities, who can give "credibility" to your story.

Six: Just don't go. Put your energy into a border action instead.

One final comment: Just prior to leaving the border and returning south, one customs official remarked with cynicism, "It is my job to protect the Canadian economy".